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Get a Lifeline - Hatfield learning centreGetting online has broadened the horizons of POA members and their friends and families using the learning centre at Hatfield Prison.
For one union member at the Hatfield learning centre, this meant showing him some of the websites devoted to hot-air balloons, explains Ellen Schofield, the centre's manager. Once he found out about all the online information on his favourite subject that he couldn't have found anywhere else, he discovered a passion for the internet. 'The need for a non-threatening introduction to ICT* was partly prompted by the Prison Service moving many of its administrative and training systems online,' Ellen explains. 'For some, there was an almost phobic response to computers but the need for change has been imposed on them. We work with them on neutral territory and find out what their interests are to improve their confidence.' The Hatfield learners are not alone. An estimated 10 million people don't use the internet and the majority of these are the most disadvantaged and older people. The Government-funded UK Online centres are a network of thousands of centres that help people get started with computers and the internet. Staff are on hand to offer help and support with more than 30 free, easy courses on www.myguide.gov.uk. The Online basics course package is designed for beginners, showing them how to use a mouse and keyboard and send their first email. The Online jobs package can help learners search and apply for jobs online and prepare for interviews. Other packages introduce learners to online shopping, banking and networking. 'The staff without computer skills found it difficult to use the systems and Online basics was perfect for them to try their hand, learn the basics and gain confidence on a computer,' says Ellen. Unionlearn has now become a partner organisation with UK online centres and, with support from ULRs, will be reaching out to people who need help with their IT skills. The IT programmes will be introduced to the 400-plus trade union workplace and community learning centres in factories, bus depots, offices, royal palaces, Sikh temples and football clubs. Get online week in October was aimed at helping 80,000 people like the reluctant POA learners to get online, making it the single biggest digital inclusion campaign in the UK Briefing document (500 words) issued 24 Jan 2011  Darren's Learning Journey Never too old to learn or never too young to Teach Case study: Unionlearn Digital Champions Holby City's Tina Hobley |
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unionlearn Telephone 020 7079 6920 |
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Sometimes all it takes to encourage a reluctant learner onto the internet is a peek at all the online resources about a subject close to their heart.